A new legal debate over children’s social media use is gaining attention in Pakistan. A petition has been filed before the Islamabad High Court seeking stronger protections for minors online.
The petition calls for children under 16 to be barred from using major social media platforms. These include TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. It also seeks stronger safeguards from technology companies to protect young users.
Lawyers Yahya Fareed Khawaja and Jalal Haider Malik filed the petition. They urged the court to establish a clear legal framework for child safety online. The case is expected to be heard next month.
The petition highlights several risks faced by children on digital platforms. These include cyberbullying, harassment, blackmail and online exploitation. It also raises concerns about harmful content and other digital threats.
The proposed framework would introduce strict age verification requirements. It would also give parents greater control over their children’s online activities. Social media companies would have clear responsibilities to protect users below 16.
The development has also revived an earlier legislative debate in Pakistan. A similar bill was introduced in the Senate in July 2025.
PPP senators Sarmad Ali and Masroor Ahsan introduced the Social Media (Age Limit for Users) Bill, 2025. The proposed law sought to stop users under 16 from creating accounts.
The bill covered platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp. It also included Bigo Live, Snapchat, YouTube and Threads. Heavy fines were proposed for companies that failed to follow the rules.
However, the proposed legislation did not become law. It was later withdrawn from Parliament.
Senator Masroor Ahsan has indicated that the legislation could return after stakeholder consultations. He said the previous version needed further improvements. The appropriate age threshold was also among the issues requiring discussion.
The latest petition argues that Pakistan needs dedicated legislation for children’s online safety. It points to existing laws covering serious crimes involving children. However, it says stronger protection is needed against emerging digital threats.
The petition also refers to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. It cites General Comment No. 25, adopted in March 2021.
The international framework states that children’s rights must also be protected in the digital environment. These rights include privacy, safety and consideration of their best interests.
The petition argues that protecting these rights is part of the state’s legal responsibility.
Other countries have also taken steps to limit children’s social media access. Australia passed legislation in 2024 targeting social media use by under-16s. The rules required platforms to prevent younger children from maintaining accounts.
The Australian restrictions came into force at the end of 2025. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom continues to have minimum age requirements on major platforms. Many services set their minimum age at 13.
In other news read more about PTA Advises Parents to Monitor Kids’ Social Media Activities
The Islamabad High Court proceedings could add fresh momentum to the debate in Pakistan. The case may also influence discussions over future legislation governing children’s digital access.
